Tent camping near Lyndhurst, New Jersey ranges from accessible state parks to primitive backcountry sites. Located in Bergen County at 52 feet above sea level, Lyndhurst serves as a convenient starting point for campers seeking both urban-adjacent and more remote natural settings. Winter camping options are limited, with most sites closing from November through March due to the region's typically cold and snowy conditions.
What to do
Boating and paddling: Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers water recreation along both bay and ocean shores. "Tent camping near the water - great for Jersey Shore adventures. Make sure to check out the lighthouses nearby," notes Becky G. The park also features a trail that runs parallel to the beach, as Maggie A. describes: "There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride."
Urban exploration: At Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers can experience unique urban camping. "There are abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring. There are rangers taking you on a trek and exploring the abandoned building," writes Phillip L. The campground provides unusual city views, as he adds: "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings like a night light."
Day trip to NYC: Multiple campgrounds serve as bases for visiting New York City. Susan B. from Sandy Hook describes it as a "Quiet, practical location to launch an exploration into NY City." Similarly, at Croton Point Park, one camper notes the convenience of the "train station right there," making it possible to camp while accessing city attractions.
What campers like
Water access: Croton Point Park provides waterfront camping along the Hudson River. Anil S. shares: "This must be one of the most breathtaking camp grounds right on the Hudson. Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out... and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!"
Lake swimming: Sebago Cabin Camp features exceptional water recreation opportunities. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," writes Ethan K. Another camper, Katharine T., adds: "Near lake Welch- which is phenomenal for easy nearly- beach like camping."
Natural seclusion: Round Valley State Park Campground offers true wilderness camping. One visitor notes: "Even though I live 10 minutes away I like to camp here because you still feel a little isolated. With no roads to the campgrounds it takes some effort to get there and it's a beautiful place." James R. adds: "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many of the best tent camping sites near Lyndhurst, New Jersey require significant effort to reach. At Round Valley, Agbi B. explains: "It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort! If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to your site." Another visitor notes sites are "at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across."
Limited amenities: Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2 offers very basic accommodations. Ethan K. describes: "This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water... This is a pretty spread out site with plenty of level space to set up multiple tents. There is a great fire pit to heat up water and cook food."
Weather awareness: Sandy Hook campsites have minimal protection from elements. Craig M. notes: "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table."
Wildlife considerations: At multiple sites, wildlife encounters are common. Croton Point campers mention raccoons, while Sandy Hook visitors warn about "numerous and bold raccoons," advising: "Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, Sebago Cabins offers comfortable alternatives. Hashim C. describes: "Most cabins have 2 rooms with 4 cots but some are larger inside has a full fridge and double hot plate outside a fire pit and grill with table." Another visitor adds that the cabins are "equipped with an outside grill and picnic area."
Scheduled activities: The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center provides family-friendly programming. Camper Thomas M. shares: "Very clean. They offer a meal plan (Option for breakfast, lunch, dinner) that you can get at their dinning hall and I HIGHLY recommend that option." Another visitor mentions: "You can also rent canoes and take them out on the lake for an afternoon activity."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. Thomas notes about Croton Point Park: "Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper." The park also includes a basketball court and walking paths.
Tips from RVers
Small RV only: Wawayanda State Park Campground accommodates smaller RVs but lacks hookups. A camper notes: "Campsites are side-by-side - no privacy from neighbors. Primitive bathrooms need ventilation. Clean enough, but hold your breath." The park offers no electric hookups, water hookups, or shower facilities.
Limited level sites: RVers should be aware that many campgrounds in the area have terrain challenges. At Wawayanda, one camper warns about Site #3: "Campgrounds are a narrow patch of grass by the roadway. Site #3 is on a hill which doesn't make for a comfortable night of sleep."
Seasonal access: Most RV-accessible campgrounds in the region close during winter months. According to Wawayanda State Park information, the campground is only open "April 1 to October 31," which is typical for many parks in the area.
